Offline Activity.....

University of Winnipeg: Climate Change Connection Premieres “The Age of Stupid”

Where will we be forty years from now? How will the human activities of today influence the state our planet in the future? The documentary film, “The Age of Stupid”, starring Pete Postlethwaite, attempts to predict the answer to these questions. Postlethwaite plays and elderly man in 2050. He recounts events through news clips of 2008 and earlier years that should have been warning signs to what was to come should society continue along the same path of energy consumption and exploitation of the Earth’s resources. The clips were recorded in countries around the world, including the United States, Nigeria, France, India, and many more, and were showing great devastation and destruction.

The leading cause behind this devastation and destruction is oil exploration and refining. Because our economies and society are dependent on fossil fuels for profit and energy, the threat of a limited supply is causing wars and unrest between the countries with a supply and those wanting the supply. At the same time, the burning of these fuels to create goods and services as well as provide energy is having detrimental effects on our global climate, and thus all the ecosystems of Earth. Since oil companies have a significant amount of power, they are influencing politicians, the media, and the views of the public.

However, not only is oil being overexploited, but so are other resources like water, land, and animals. At current consumption levels we could destroy ourselves, causing the next mass extinction. Therefore, and as if in hindsight since this film is projected in the future, Postlethwaite poses the question of why didn’t we save ourselves when we had the chance?

Consider the last newspaper article you read, or the last broadcast you saw on television. Did you notice any particular view presented through the wording that described an event, by the types of products advertised, or in the way one organization was mentioned relative to another? Everything in society, whether it is the media or the politicians running the country, has been shaped by the influence of the major international corporations. This “everything” includes society’s way of thinking, values, and actions. Power through profit and ownership of significant amounts of capital has allowed companies to deter the public form believing there are alternative energy sources, and that these alternative energy sources may be just as profitable and efficient as current ones. Also, companies pretend climate change isn’t happening, and have been able to make the public believe it as well, by funding research that favors the interests of the company. A researcher that implies that the greenhouse gases and other impurities emitted by a company’s production are negatively impacting the environment or health of society will most likely see a decrease in their funding in the future.

Furthermore, when people participate in certain activities, they do not consider the consequences of these activities on future generations. The idea that I can do whatever I want because I won’t be around when the effects of my action are felt has become a more frequent logic in society. Everyone is centering more on their individual needs and wants rather than what may be the best course of action in the long run.

Also, when many people do show an interest in becoming more sustainable, they often balk at the ideas being implemented in their own communities. Arguments surrounding the aesthetical views of wind turbines in a field, or solar panels on community roofs, has negatively impacted further growth in sustainable energy. However, this is “not in my backyard” (NIMBY) mind-set should be applied to coal-run energy production plants, hydroelectric dams, and power lines. Are these features of our societies any more aesthetically pleasing than a wind turbine? Or have such structures become permanent fixtures in our minds as part of the landscape?

Lastly, the film presented many suggestions that may help to deal with the current dilemmas. Placing a global cap on fossil fuels, thus with the hope of creating more equity among countries, and carbon allowances or rationing for companies and individuals are two possibilities for the future as the demand for oil continues. Also, carbon labeling on products similar to a nutritional label on food items is mentioned. Through knowing the amount of oil used to produce a product, many people believe that the public will become more aware of their consumption and thus decrease the purchases of certain goods. Though these suggestions sound plausible, they may have only a minimal influence on the public. People don’t like to change their habits, and therefore will balk at the possibility of having to do so. The age of stupid may simply continue.

DUST Networks. Wind power. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.dustnetworks.com/applications/smart_grid/renewables_wind [2009]

Seed Media Group. Starts with a bang. [Online]. Avail from: http://scienceblogs.com/startswithabang/2009/07/2012_the_real_milestone_the_re.php [2009]

Related links.....

Manitoba Eco Network. Climate change connections. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.climatechangeconnection.org/science_tags.htm [2008 Feb 8]

Spanner Films. The age of stupid. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.ageofstupid.net/synopsis_0 [2009]

Selection 15

More Profit with Less Carbon

Fossil fuel consumption is a major concern when considering the economic stability of our planet. In light of a limited supply and an increasing demand for oil, our society has begun to look for alternative energy sources. According to Lovins, alternative energy sources, such as wind, solar, and geothermal, show that alternative sources are more efficient in terms of the amount of energy gained for the amount of resources put in. Furthermore, alternative sources often cost the same as, or less than, oil produced energy. Also, designing a system to conserve energy is more productive and efficient when every part of the structure is considered. For example, and entire building can be updated to conserve more energy through the addition of insulation, new windows with tinted glass and multiple panes to allow heat in or keep it out, and the implementation of solar panels on the roof.

However, while buildings have seen significant advances, an area that still needs improvements is automobiles. Vehicles, because of their size and heavy materials, are very inefficient. This inefficiency is mainly the result of peoples’ unwillingness to change, the lack of recognition of benefits that such alternative sources provide, and the insecurities surrounding smaller and lighter vehicles. Therefore, since the benefits of alternative sources outweigh the cost of implementation, why haven’t more companies begun to use these sources?

As shown in “The Age of Stupid”, society is greatly influenced by the voices of major corporations. Oil and gas companies are not going to promote alternative energy sources, or the research for such sources, because it may lead to a shift in the demand for their products. Also, through lack of information, the public is often uninformed about the benefits of alternative energy. Start-up costs for individuals to change from oil or gas heating to solar panels and wind turbines may blind them to the long-term stability and efficiency of wind or solar power.

Furthermore, the public can be made more aware of new technologies and alternative sources by the action of the government. Since Manitoba Hydro is a public utility, it would only make sense for the government to wish to make it a more profitable business. After all, it would save them the costs associated with the coal used to generate almost one quarter of the province’s energy.

However, it is easy to recognize that the government may be leery to switch energy sources for several reasons. First, the company has been run the same way for about one hundred years. Since the outcome has been good, why change a good thing? Next, because of the influences of corporations involved with fossil fuels, the government may hesitate to change energy sources in case this supply of coal would not remain as a back-up should the alternative source of energy tried fail. Lastly, alternative energy sources must be researched so that they can be implemented in a way that is most successful. This research would require funds to find appropriate locations, to try wind turbines or solar panels, to change old systems over to the new ones, and to continue to monitor this new system to see what changes may be necessary for the future. Because the funds must come from the public through taxes or an investor, both may be influenced again by the oil and gas corporations. Supporting a project that goes against these corporations could make the investor unfavourable in the eyes of other corporations in society, thus degrading that investor’s reputation. The public may protest such a change should their taxes increase or funding be cut from important programs.

Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 65-9.

Selection 16

Reinventing the Energy System

Throughout history, society’s energy systems have been altered to best meet the needs of the people. In the beginning, our society had a very primitive lifestyle. The main focus was to meet the needs of the people through hunting and gathering, thus gaining energy from the land. Over time, a shift to animal power and later water power through new inventions, such as the water wheel and wind mills, can be seen. Finally, wind and water gave way to steam which was closely followed by the combustion of oil and gas. This final shift was the result of the need to meet the demands for energy associated with the Industrial Revolution. Improvements to technologies allowed for each transition, and comparing the trends of the past with the current situation, some people might say we are now in a transition to an energy source more conducive to the Information Revolution we are now entering. Factors that are influencing this current shift are resource limits and the environmental and health burdens associated with society’s fossil fuel dependence. And because of this dependence, many people have forgotten the connection between energy, human well-being, and the environment. Energy is often considered a commodity that can be purchased in whatever quantity desirable. However, many people in developing nations do not have access to oil resources, and therefore are looking at alternative technologies for the future. Therefore, renewable-resources-based energy systems are the future. Decentralizing our systems combined with new renewable energy productions could provide more accessible energy for people around the world.

Currently we have a centralized energy system, or everyone gets their energy from a few concentrated companies. Since the majority of these companies are oil and gas related, or are dependent on oil and gas corporations for funding, they are not going to be looking for alternative sources.

However, by not acting now, developed nations may soon be passed by the developing nations in energy-related technological advances. Current systems in developed nations would have to replace or retrofit current energy-producing facilities. This would require large amounts of money, time, and labour. Developing nations on the other hand, would not. Since developing countries do not currently have many energy-producing facilities, they can start from scratch and skip the in-between stage of oil produced energy and go straight to renewable-resource energy production, provided that they can get the proper funding. For countries like China and India, this funding may come sooner than later. Hence, in the near future they could advance more quickly and create a new market of alternative energy sources faster than developed nations.

As shown in “The Age of Stupid”, and echoed again in this article, the ingrained habits of societies in developed nations has prevented any major transitions thus far. Should developing nations implement new and more sustainable systems before the developed nations, however, the people of these developed nations may see the error of their hesitation and inaction. Also, they may then be faced with a decline in the markets still dependent on gas and oil. A country has to utilize the resources that are available to it, including wind and solar power. By not tapping into these renewable resources, we are not efficiently exploiting our resources.

Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 70-5.

Selection 26

Climate Change 2007: The Physical Science Basis

Svante Arrhenius, a Swedish chemist, predicted in 1896 that the Earth’s temperature would increase by four to six degrees Celsius if carbon dioxide had a two-fold increase as a result of humans burning fossil fuels. However, until 1960, this prediction was ignored until notable changes began to emerge across the planet. Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the greenhouse gases carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide have increased in the atmosphere, thus increasing the atmosphere’s overall warming. This warming has become apparent through increases in global average temperatures of the air, global average temperatures of the oceans, and the melting of snow and ice as well as the rise in sea levels. Furthermore, numerous changes are occurring to the climate including changes in the amounts of precipitation, ocean salinity, wind patterns, the frequency and intensity of storms, and Arctic ice melts. Such changes are largely the result of anthropogenic influences, especially through the burning of fossil fuels. Also, the effects of these excessive greenhouse gases are expected to continue regardless of whether or not we stop the burning of fossil fuels. In light of these expected changes, researchers have created several models to predict future scenarios. Therefore, and as depicted in one of the models, even if society switches to sustainable energy sources, the affects of current and past activities will still be felt for centuries to come.

The media often reports on the situations arising from extreme weather events around the globe such as storms, droughts, and major heat waves. Hurricane Katrina is one of the most memorable events because of the amount of destruction that resulted from storm surges, large amounts of rain, and high winds. Intense cyclonic storms on land, such as tornadoes, are also popping up on weather maps where they are not normally seen. Because of excessive heating, more significant pressure systems are being created, thus increasing the wind speeds and updrafts of warm air masses. Surface temperatures over either the water or land help to determine the intensity of the storms because higher temperatures cause increased evaporation and increased updrafts.

Furthermore, since these changes are occurring, the public is going to have to find ways of adapting to and reducing the amount of damage associated with more intensive weather. Such a feat can be more easily accomplished in developed countries where they have the funds and resources available to research new technologies to withstand the forces of nature. Lesser developed countries have no disaster relief systems, and therefore suffer greatly in droughts and floods when crops and livestock are killed.

Events that correlate with precipitation, such as forest fire frequencies, are also going to increase. Decreased precipitation levels will cause droughts which may lead to fires. With warmer temperatures, more water will be evaporated into the atmosphere, thus drying areas further. As a result, water sources are going to become more overburdened as they will be used to fight fires, assist agricultural practices through irrigation, and become reduced in size as a result of increased evaporation. Freshwater shortages are already occurring because of population and agricultural demands.

Through this dire forecast of the future, many people should be prompted to decrease their fossil fuel consumption in the hope of reducing the effects of climate change and ecosystem changes brought on by increased heating. For those people who believe there is no hope for the future because the changes necessary to adapt our current ways of thinking and lifestyles required to offset global heating and climate change are too numerous, they may choose to do nothing. After all, our existence on Earth is finite and we will one day die off, though mainly because of the consequences of our own actions, like many of the other species that we have seen disappear. It is just a matter of time, and global warming may only decrease the amount of time we have remaining.

Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 127-35.

Related link.....

CBC. In depth: Hurricane Katrina-Hurricane Katrina timeline. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.cbc.ca/news/background/katrina/katrina_timeline.html#top [2009]

Selection 3

Principles of Conservation

The idea of conservation has often been mistaken to represent the proper use of resources so that these same resources are available for future generations. However, the three main principles of conservation are development, preservation, and the common good. In terms of development, the present generation must use or develop the available resources to their fullest capacity. Currently countries should strive for maximum efficiency, or get the most out of what they have been given. Preservation involves the idea of waste. Resources should not be wasted, and if waste is present, then it is often a sign that we aren’t efficiently using those resources. Since it is a duty for society to not waste, then controlling the earth is also a duty. Forest fires destroy large amounts of vegetation, or resources, thus representing a waste that has been recognized as one we are able to prevent. Lastly, through the development and preservation of these resources, they should be made accessible to everyone. Everyone has a right to those resources, and through proper development and preservation, a large enough quantity should be available so that everyone can have an equal and abundant share to meet their needs.

Therefore, this article prompts the question, is our society conserving our resources? In terms of following the three principles outlined, one could argue that for the most part we are. The one principle that may be considered an exception is the third one, or through the development and preservation of our resources, everyone should receive the benefits. Globally, only a select percentage of people actually get to utilize and develop the resources that they want to. Richer countries have begun to exploit resources in poorer countries when theirs’ are degraded to the point where they are no longer able to meet the needs of the people. This exploitation from other countries also occurs when one country never had quantities of a resource large enough to meet the demands of its people. For some countries, it is not a matter of not having resources, but rather a matter of not having the means to develop and utilize these resources. For others, the cost to extract the resources far outweighs the benefits gained in return. Even within the borders of one country, equal access and utilization of resources is not common. Part of this access involves a persons’ purchasing power, which is then related to the amount of income they receive relative to other people in their country, as well as the price for that resource.

However, while the distribution of resources may not meet the third principle of conservation, development of available resources certainly makes up for it. People are demanding products and companies are providing them as quickly and efficiently as possible, often without concerns for the environmental impacts. Since most products sold are based on a global or local market, preservation of our resources is important to our economical productivity. As noted, waste seen in a market is a sign of inefficiency, and therefore companies try to eradicate it.

Moving away from this global perspective, consider local provincial parks. These parks are managed on the principles of conservation. Flora and fauna are made accessible to the public throughout the year and in its natural habitat. Most parks offer the opportunity to go hiking, swimming, fishing, camping, or just sightseeing. Each of these activities utilizes the resources associated with that area. Furthermore, forestry, mining, and oil development area also allowed within park boundaries. Because people wish to see these green spaces maintained into the future, they often argue that the development of all the resources in the park should not be allowed. In other words, the removal of trees, mineral, and oil should be prohibited despite their economic and societal benefits.

Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 8-9.

Selection 4

A Sand County Almanac

Leopold begins his article by describing the understanding and cooperation between a mountain and a wolf. The wolf depends on the mountain to provide a habitat for it and its prey, the deer. The mountain, in turn, depends on the wolves to keep the deer population in check so that they do not over take and destroy the mountain’s landscape. This cooperative relationship has since been destroyed because people have come in and removed the wolves, thus destroying the mountain because the deer eventually took over and overexploited the vegetation on the slopes. Through this event of removing the wolves, people have shown a lack of ethics for animals as well as the land. In the past, people have treated their fellow man the same way, or in other words as property, to be controlled and exploited. Ethics, or the right and wrong associated with such control over our fellow mans has evolved through time so that most people are considered equals. Therefore, a cooperative and competitive balance has been reached so that each person can survive yet maintain a distinct place in society without bringing harm to others. At present, people do not respect the land or the plants and animals upon it the same as they do each other. Conservation concerns the exploitation and development of resources, which often leads to degradation and extinction of environments and species. In other words, people do not have any ethics or values concerning the best way to govern and use the land. No cooperative relationship exists between giving from the earth to the people and the returning from the people to the land. However, as long as both the land and people exist, such a relationship may yet evolve. Thus, there is hope yet for the preservation of the land and its valuable resources.

Man’s need for power and domination of the earth has caused many species to flee their native lands or become extinct. There is not one ecosystem left on the planet that has not experienced some change either directly or indirectly through human activities. What began as small populations of hunters and gatherers has led to a global population exploiting all the resources that land has to offer. Children depend on their parents for food and sustenance until they are old enough to support themselves. Like this parent, Mother Nature has provided everything necessary for people to live, grow, and prosper in every way. However, unlike the respectful relationship usually seen between children to their parent or caregiver, people act ungratefully towards Nature and continue taking what she has to offer even when their needs are satisfied. Also, people give nothing back in return.

Extirpation of a species from an area is not uncommon if that species is thought to negatively impact human development. For example, humans may remove predators such as wolves, bears, or coyotes that are eating their livestock. Considerations to the wild populations that this predator may control are not considered. Once that predator is no longer present, people begin to realize, in hindsight, the critical role it once played.

In many areas deer have become a community problem now that no predators are present. This overabundance of deer has reduced crop production, threatened the lives of numerous motorists, and increased competition between other organisms that may share the same food source. A problem associated with the extinction of so many species today is that people are only now discovering so many ecological niches that they never knew existed when the species was present.


Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 10-2.

In Class Discussion...

Wapusk National Park

Parks, when they are created, have a dual mandate. They are to protect the ecological integrity of the area while at the same time allow access to the public. However, for Wapusk National Park, is this dual mandate possible? Wapusk is located in northern Manitoba along the Hudson Bay. It is isolated from all communities, so human access is limited to planes, snowmobiles, and all terrain vehicles. There is nothing by way of roads, and traditional access has currently been the only human entry permitted. Because public access has been limited, the dual mandate has yet to be met.

In general, whenever humans are allowed into a new area, they impose changes on the organisms in that area by their mere presence. Also, people have a natural curiosity to explore their surroundings. This exploration includes locating the most common organisms, or both plants and animals, that are key components of that landscape. For Wapusk, people would seek out the polar bears and their cubs. As a result of such activities, most parks have been able to protect the main vegetation and organisms that represent that ecosystem, but we must keep in mind that not everything will be protected when a new species, in this case people, is introduced to the area.

Furthermore, access to areas will require some form of infrastructure. Designated areas for overnight use or small lodging facilities will be essential along with roads and walking paths so that no one entering the park would get lost. Wapusk and other parks are remote and expansive areas, and for some people unfamiliar to these areas it is easy to get disorientated when paths are not given or marked. Wapusk is far from everything human-related, so major developments must take place if the government wishes for more people to have access. However, such developments will inevitably cause major changes, especially to such a fragile environment as Wapusk.

Possible activities for Wapusk may include guided tours in designated areas by people familiar with the terrain. Helicopters and small bush planes may be used for aerial views, but the costs associated with such activities may be uneconomical because not everyone can afford the fare. Also, the noise associated with helicopters, planes, and other vehicles necessary for tours, since people would most likely cause greater impacts to the environment should they be left up to their own devices, may negatively influence animal species. Noise often scares animals so they will leave areas that are noisy for quieter areas. With more frequent noise, some animals may move to new locations entirely. Thus, natural ranges and migratory routes may be influenced.

In conclusion, Wapusk would not be able to fulfill this dual mandate if government officials wish for all the ecological components of this ecosystem to be protected. However, a happy medium may be reached by allowing some access through tours, thus reducing the effects the public may cause through their own explorations. However, in order to do so, some infrastructure will be necessary.

Related links....

Outdoorsica. Wapusk National Park. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.outdoorsica.com/guidebook/wapusk_national_park/# [2009]

Parks Canada. Wapusk National Park of Canada. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/mb/wapusk/index.aspx [2009 Oct 8]

Selection 6

The Historical Roots of our Ecological Crisis

Today’s society is faced with an ecological crisis. According to Lynn White Jr., this crisis is the result of our culture, particularly our religious beliefs. Technology has created a way to further degrade the environment, and it is being used to exploit our planet further. Whether a person claims to be a Christian or a Zen Buddhist, White argues that all religions believe in the domination of the planet. From the time humans invented the plow, which was later followed by automobiles and steam engines, they were on their path to destruction. Each change facilitated by advances in the technological world affects nature both directly and indirectly. An example used to depict this fact involved creating cars, which meant horses were no longer the main means of transportation, and as result flocks of sparrows died off. These sparrows relied on the horse manure along roadways for food. Hence, in order to halt our ecological crisis and begin cleaning up our planet, people have to consider their relationship with nature. A necessary relationship for the future would involve a new way of thinking, or religion, for society so that everyone will work together in the preservation of our planet.

While there are people who hold the belief that the planet was given to us by God, so we therefore have the right to exploit it however we choose, there are also people who believe in the stewardship and preservation of the planet. These two conflicting beliefs are both supported by biblical texts and religious teachings. Living in a multicultural society, Canadians should recognize that each culture holds slightly different perspectives on how the resources we are given should be utilized. Certain animal species are considered sacred, such as the cow in Hindu beliefs, holding great importance as either sustenance or as a means to provide the labour necessary in crop production.

Canadians have the privilege of living a very pampered lifestyle. They are able to experience luxuries that others, such as people in Africa or South America, can only dream about. This poses the question, how did Canadians become so wealthy? Well, it began with the exploitation of our resources. When traders first began the long journey from England to Canada, beavers pelts were in great demand, as were other animal skins. The fact that we almost extirpated the beaver shows how little people considered the consequences their actions may have. In many ways, society today still shows few considerations for the consequences of mining, logging, and fishing. It is only now that the resources are no longer available to exploit do people realize their mistakes.

Culture is so ingrained into us that we often do not consider something as simple as where the food on the table came from, or how far it travelled to get to that table. Think about a meal consisting of roast chicken, mashed potatoes, a salad with cucumber, lettuce, mushrooms, and celery, as well as buns, and gravy. After this meal, I had a discussion with a family member regarding culture and how ingrained our norms are. It didn’t take her long to point out that there was only one thing a sophist would eat; the cucumber in the salad. Sophists do not eat meat, nor do they eat any fruit or vegetables that were provided as a result of killing the plant. For me, I hadn’t even considered these possibilities. The food was provided, I could eat it happily, and that was it.

Such a discussion led me to consider how many other situations I take for granted through my ingrained culture. We drive vehicles, filling them will gas and driving to our destinations. Where did this gas come from? In order to fuel our vehicles we have to drill into the ground and extract it, a process that often destroys entire ecosystems. Yet, because the consumption of fossil fuels is a necessity of society, we don’t think much about it.

Therefore, considering our daily lives may make us realize just how society’s way of thinking has led to our current environmental situation. Consumers demand goods and services, and companies find a way to produce them, even at the cost of exploiting non-renewable resources and spilling harmful toxins into the environment in the process. Hence, what we believe greatly influences how we exploit and take for granted the resources around us.

Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 18-22.

Selection 7

The Tragedy of the Commons

The oceans, air, and land are all common property. Everyone shares these resources and responsibility for the degradation that results from improper management. This idea, presented by Garrett Hardin, of the “common pasture” school of thought, describes societies’ use of these resources. He begins by discussing how primitive agricultural practice was the first event that later resulted in the overuse of the land. Since people do not hold the same respect for public lands as for their personal property, they often do not care what consequences their actions may have upon the public lands. Furthermore, the more people we have on the planet, the greater the amount of overexploitation of our common grounds. Therefore, overpopulation is of major concern. A technical solution does not exist for the problem associated with the commons because in order for any changes to be seen in our current situation, we must first change the mindset or values of society. Though fewer commons exist-privatization has decreased the number of lands still available for public access-problems associated with the usage of the common grounds still need to be addressed. Pollution through sewage dumped into waterways, toxins spewed into the atmosphere, and chemicals from garbage leaching into the soils, has badly degraded our water, air, and soils. We, as a society, cannot in good conscience allow this to continue. Thus, action is necessary to restore and protect our common resources.

Our society today is faced with a wide variety of issues. Many of these issues are currently being debated to find the best solution. However, while many people recognize the need for immediate action, others dig in their heels and will not agree on any mediation practices until the perfect solution is created. Though the perfect solution would be ideal, let’s face it, there is rarely a perfect solution present at the time of a debate.

In would seem that a prominent issue of the environmental world is overpopulation. Overpopulation is most often used in relation to lesser developed countries because they usually have the largest populations and higher growth rates when compared to developed nations. While they are exploiting the land through primitive agricultural practises, developed nations are exploiting the atmosphere through emitting greenhouse gases. Both utilize “common” resources in a negative way.

Parks and other areas designated for the conservation of nature are increasingly becoming influenced by human actions. Boating, hiking, and camping are all activities provided so that people can connect with nature outside an urban or suburban setting. Logging and mining are also permitted in parks by the government so companies have access to these valuable resources. However, such activities can negatively affect these areas. Litter such as pop cans, plastic bags, and fast-food wrappers, is easily visible beside walking paths and along shorelines. Designated areas must be made accessible for resource extraction. Surely people should recognize this is not good for the organisms that live in these areas!

Many people are familiar with Lake Winnipeg. Eutrophication has resulted from the dumping of sewage into this watershed, or from nutrients leaching through the soil as a result of farming practices and the use of lawn chemicals. The state of the lake has gotten to the point where people will no longer use it for recreational purposes because of the discomfort associated with a green soupy bath. Eutrophication causes increased algal growth that degrades water quality and negatively impacts native species of plants and animals who share the same waters. Also, a similar situation occurs in Killarney Lake every summer, with algal blooms causing nasty odours and degraded habitats for native species and cottagers alike. Sadly, many lakes are now beginning to resemble Lake Winnipeg, and people are not changing their actions to prevent such events as this increased algal growth.

Though I am not convinced overpopulation is our worst issue today, the actions of many people in society do cause great concern. We need to take responsibility for our actions and show nature the same respect we (or most of us) show our personal, material belongings. Shirking our responsibility now will only cause many problems in the future.

Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 23-7.

Related links.....

Boesveld S. Fish farms put squeeze on marine resources. The Globe and Mail [Online]. Avail from: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/food-and-wine/fish-farms-put-squeeze-on-marine-resources/article1279812/ [2009 Sep 8]

CBC News. A sea of troubles: Lake Winnipeg in crisis. [Online]. Accessed Oct 6, 2009. Avail from: http://www.cbc.ca/manitoba/features/lakewinnipeg/web.html [2004]

David Suzuki Foundation. Conserving our oceans: healthy oceans. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.davidsuzuki.org/Oceans/Healthy_Oceans/default.asp [2009]

eBrandon.ca. Photos: Killarney Lake. [Online]. Avail from:
http://www.ebrandon.ca/photo.aspx?picture_id=12142 [2009 Aug]

Moola, F & Suzuki D. It’s time to rethink our approach to garbage. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.davidsuzuki.org/about_us/Dr_David_Suzuki/Article_Archives/weekly09180901.asp [2009 Sep 18]

The Canadian Press. Lake Winnipeg shows nitrogen, phosphorus spike. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2009/08/17/manitoba-lake-winnipeg.html [2009 Aug 17]

Selection 11

Will Hurricane Katrina Impact Shoreline Management?

Over recent decades, meteorologists have found that storms, such as hurricanes, have been increasing in strength. Because of this added strength, hurricanes have become greater sources of destruction for coastal communities. As a result, Pilkey and Young pose the question: should communities and corporations be allowed to re-build on the same vulnerable land after their homes and buildings have been demolished?

Technology continues to create materials and designs that are able to strengthen our buildings so that when re-building does occur, the infrastructure will hopefully withstand more storms. However, as technology increases, so does the intensity of the storms. Building on shorelines also increases the amount of erosion of soil into the ocean, decreases the biodiversity and ecosystem features through this erosion, and requires a large amount of funds from the government. Thus, many areas vulnerable to frequent and powerful storms have been re-built time after time. Should we allow this to continue, or should funds be cut and shoreline communities be discouraged?

It would seem that a lot of goods, services, and raw resources are being wasted on re-building. Because of the weather systems, building in vulnerable areas seems pointless and inefficient. All the funds that have been transferred into beach management, disaster relief, and re-building and strengthening entire communities could have been put towards other, more secure developments. Since each time an area is re-built the buildings become bigger, more money is required. Overall, this allocation of resources, funds, and services seems greatly displaced in light of economic issues in other parts of the country.

A similar issue to the shoreline habitation is the California wildfires’ situation. Erosion along the canyons was occurring, so people introduced trees to the area to reduce the amount of soil and rock lost. These trees appealed to many people so communities were established and the controlled fires to maintain the trees were ended. Controlled fires are essential for the well-being of forests. They prevent large disastrous wildfires. People often neglect to consider this, as we can now see in this state today. Huge deadly wildfires have begun and communities across California are being greatly impacted.

However, some members of society wish to defy Mother Nature and live wherever they so choose. Through the governments funding re-building, they essentially are supporting these peoples’ decisions. Both canyon and ocean fronts have remarkable views of nature, and they also share in being locations that experience some of the worst disasters because of nature.

Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 43-7.

US Global Change Research Program. Climate change impacts on the United States-the potential consequences of climate variability and change overview: coastal areas and marine resources. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.usgcrp.gov/usgcrp/Library/nationalassessment/LargerImages/SectorGraphics/Coastal/USMap.jpg [2003 Oct 12]

Selection 12

Ecosystems and Human Well-being

The improper use of ecosystem services to meet the demands of the global society has resulted in environmental degradation, increased poverty, and unsustainable practices associated with resource use. The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment acknowledged these issues in 2005 when they developed eight goals influenced by our current environmental situation. They recognized that the poor are often members of society most greatly impacted by environmental problems and changes, while the rich gain economic success and improved luxurious goods. Furthermore, they recognized that in order to make any significant changes to the current situation we must first make changes to our policies, institutions, and practices. Humans are altering our planet, driving ecosystem changes through overexploitation, introduction of alien species, and pollution. Therefore, better ecosystem management is needed in order to reduce the changes to natural systems and improve the quality of life for poorer people and the rest of society.

Whenever disaster strikes, lesser developed nations are always the hardest hit. They do not have the means, through emergency supplies and government funds, to offer relief and assistance to their communities most affected. As a result, famines and diseases spread throughout the improvised communities.

How have people changed ecosystems so that they provide greater services for people? Having grown up in an agricultural community, I have seen the tilling of soils, the draining of wetlands into lakes and rivers so that more land can be planted, and the creation of pig barns and cattle feedlots. Because community members wish to improve their economic standings, they will convert natural grasslands into large-scale agricultural fields. These fields will grow crops and meet the demands of a growing nation’s hunger, all the while providing funds to satisfy the farmer and his family. Negative consequences that arise, such as increased flooding in the spring as a result of fewer reservoirs (wetlands) to hold the water, are dealt with through drainage techniques and genetically modified crops. If extensive farming continues, the soils will not be returned to their natural state, and they then are only fit for pasture. Large deposits of salts are becoming visible through increased evaporation which results in a greater loss of water from the soil. This salt further degrades the land.

Africa has seen the degradation of the landscape as a result of their poorly managed agricultural practices. Desertification has developed leaving numerous places no longer habitable or productive. Economic gains may have been reached before overuse degraded the quality of the soils. Now hunger and famine prevail, and are suspected to be prolonged as population demands for food continue. Global climate change will further affect this situation because it affects weather patterns and precipitation patterns. Certain amounts of rainfall are essential for optimal crop production. Areas experiencing decreased levels of moisture have begun to use irrigation and re-route rivers to keep croplands producing.

Overall, if we want to see any changes in current practices, we need to first see changes in policies, institutions, and current practices. The increased awareness of the environment through media and education facilities has begun to prompt changes in technology as well as make demands on the government to halt or regulate companies that are overexploiting their resources. Technology has become more ecologically sustainable, such as alternative sources of power through wind turbines and solar panels. Such alternatives have reduced some of the demands on fossil fuels, and show promise for further decreasing fossil fuel usage in the future. Many environmental and economic models have been created to predict possible scenarios for these future years. Some of these models appear quite bleak, while others show positive outcomes through the implementation of this improved technology. However, our future is dependent on the actions of today’s people, and the consequences and impacts that the environment may suffer as a result of such actions.

Easton T. Classic edition sources: environmental studies. New York: McGraw-Hill; 2009. pp. 48-54.

Related Article.....

York, G. 2009 September 30. Millions more face malnutrition in warmer climate. The Globe and Mail; Sect A: 14.

Offline Activity...My Reconnection with Nature

Being a university student, I often get caught up in the fast pace of city life, running to and from classes, balancing time with family and friends, and fitting in enough time to study. Through this all, it is easy to forget my surroundings and ignore the tranquility and reprieve from a hectic schedule that nature has to offer. Therefore, on my walk home from classes one afternoon, I decided to ignore the thoughts in my mind and concentrate only on what I saw, felt, heard, tasted, and touched around me. Since this was a cool fall day, it did not take long to feel the crispness of the air, and know that winter is fast approaching. Because of recent rain, there was moisture in the air, increasing the coolness of my surroundings. As I moved from the campus to a residential area, I could hear dogs barking, squirrels chirping, and birds calling out as they began to stage in preparation for their long journey south. I recognized this changing of the seasons, and what it would mean for the trees and the animals. It was a time to shut down, or move on, depending on their ability to withstand the winter.

As I continued along, there was the smell of wet pavement mingled with decaying leaves and the aroma of freshly cut grass. Ripening apples that had fallen to the cement and been crushed added their own aroma to the mix. The leaves were rustling overhead, and the rocks crunching under my shoes. Small critters would cross my path only to dart for cover in the nearest bush. There were so many activities going on around me, and I had often forgotten to notice, or even care, about their significance. That single leaf, if examined very closely, would reveal a process that makes living on Earth possible. It involves the conversion of carbon dioxide into carbohydrates through the harnessing of solar energy. This energy, then stored in the plant tissue, could then be utilized by other organisms to go about their daily activities. That little squirrel with the peanut was just one example of an organism using what nature provided. As I moved through the gate, I saw what remained of the garden. I recognized that the soil had provided a foundation for the plants grown. That soil was then re-nourished through the addition of compost materials so that it could be just as productive the following year. Each tree that I had passed offered up similar services....it created the oxygen from water through the process of photosynthesis, it took in nutrients and moisture from the soil, growing big and tall. On warm summer days it would offer shade, and in the winter it would stand stark and barren against the crisp blue sky.

Though it saddened me for a time to think of the end of summer and how everything would turn to burnt orange and yellow, I was once again gladdened to realize that winter would provide its own picturesque moments. The snow will fall, and the ice will form, but through it all, nature will keep its services going to provide what is essential for all living forms. Summer will come again, as will winter, and spring, and fall. Each season has its own beauty, and we must recognize nature as that artist.


Forget not that the earth delights to feel your bare feet and the winds long to play with your hair. ~Kahlil Gibran

In Class Discussions.....

How I rely on the physical environment....

The day is overcast and drizzling as I sit on a chair in my kitchen reading a university textbook. Because of the darkness, I rely on the assistance of a light. Everything around me is the product of a natural system in my physical environment. The air that I am breathing was first purified by trees and other autotrophic organism, for carbon dioxide was removed and oxygen released in its place. The light above me is powered by electricity. Electricity is generated through a hydroelectric dam. This involves the water cycles and the movement of electrons through an electrical power system. Since the temperature has dropped with the approach of winter, I also rely on the furnace to keep me warm. The heat produced from the furnace was created through the combustion of natural gas. Natural gas, before it could be used in the furnace, had to be mined and purified. It then had to be transported from the mining area to a location where it could be transferred through pipes to our homes. Also, the clothing that I am wearing offers up some warmth. My sweatshirt is a mixture of synthetic fabrics, hence also coming from mined gas and oil. Before reaching the store, however, it had to be manufactured and then transported. Manufacturing and transportation both require large amounts of energy. This energy also must come from the environment, either through electrical power or again, mined fossil fuels. Jeans and a cotton-blended t-shirt were most likely created in the United States, for cotton is a crop that they produce and harvest. Cotton plants not only provide the proteins that make up the fibres of the material for the shirt, but also assist in the purification of air.

Trees are also the providers of the paper in which a publisher wrote the text on for my book. Trees must be taken to the mill and processed before later being converted into paper and finally the textbook. Inks and glosses were created from vegetable based dies and clay respectively. Again, the completed product was then transported to its final destination, my kitchen table. In order to read for an extended period of time, I sat upon a chair. This chair was made from wood and plastic. It was held together with glue and bolts. Wood would come from trees once again, and plastic from mined fossil fuels. The glue would be a product of harvesting horse hooves, and the bolts would be made from metal extracts found in rock sediments, which were later refined and manufactured. Since I also happened to be drinking a glass of water, the glass would be from heated sand, and the water would be pumped from a water resource outside the city (Shoal Lake). This water was purified by the natural vegetation, microorganisms, and sediments of the lake before later being processed in a treatment facility. Therefore, everything that surrounds me, whether I realize it or not, was first part of a natural system that our society has manipulated to meet everyone’s personal needs.

Connect vs. Disconnect

People can participate in many activities that connect them to nature. Growing up in the city does not stop parents from experiencing the joys of going to the beach, on nature hikes, and camping in national and provincial parks with their children. Planting a garden or assisting in the restoring of wetlands, riparian areas, or just planting trees and flowers are excellent ways that people are able to connect to the systems that they depend on for their very survival. Nature provides adventures, discoveries, and breath-taking views that appeal to many people through rushing brooks, sharp ridges that hide a beautiful flower from the eyes not willing to explore to the very crevice of a mountain, and the overall picture of land meeting water and endless masses of air. Enjoying a sunrise, a sunset, or the fog rising off a pond, one will know that forces that are not in man’s control have created such sights.

In contrast, it is easy for people to get disconnected from nature. We often argue that life gets in the way of fully enjoying what nature has to offer. Technology is often a shield, blocking natural forces from influencing the human beneath. IPods block the sounds of birds chirping and squirrels chattering. Vehicles are equipped with barriers such as windshields and a metal frame to prevent the wind from caressing your skin. Instead of watching the sunset, people are often in front of a TV screen, laughing at a hilarious joke. When families travel to parks, they often bring the technologies from home. TV’s, IPods, and cell phones should not be necessities, especially when people go to parks and green areas to “get away” from the city or town.

Therefore, society needs to break down the shield of technology so that they can enjoy what nature has to offer and appreciate its beauty and systems that make our existence possible.

What is the Purpose of this Connection?

Recognizing that we influence the natural systems and environment around us is the first step in connecting with nature. Humans and nature are interconnected, even though many people believe the two to be separate entities. Furthermore, we must also recognize how we influence nature. When people are connected to nature, they begin to consider their impacts that their actions have on natural systems around them. Everyone becomes more conscious of their surroundings as well as changes in their lives that could significantly alter nature. Instead of hopping in the car, people may instead decide to ride a bike or walk. Carpooling and public transportation may be other alternatives. Purchasing a more fuel efficient vehicle would reduce green house gases, thus reducing ecological footprints.

A connection to nature may also change a person’s values. Freshwater and clean air are provided through the purification in natural systems. Hence, valuing freshwater and clean air may lead people to conserve the water and reduce their emissions, such as carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide. When we value friendship, honesty, and justice, we stand up for these beliefs and argue with anyone who feels differently. The same goes for environmental degradation. If a company is mining or logging in a park, and you happen to value the green space of the park and what it represents, then you would argue that such actions are unethical and shouldn’t be allowed to continue. Valuing freshwater would cause conflict between groups of people if one group was dumping toxic wastes into rivers and streams. How we value a resource is often depicted in the way we then manage that resource and protect it. Therefore, through connecting ourselves to nature, we begin to value the services and resources that it has to offer.

Where do your Environmental Ethics Lie?

While I value the various life forms around me, I also value the overall system and how it functions to keep everything alive. Therefore, I could say that I am between the biocentric and ecocentric viewpoints. In terms of the biocentric, I believe that every species has the right to live where it chooses and that we must not prevent its survival. However, I also believe that some management of certain species may be required should human actions remove population barriers that used to control that species’ numbers.

Biodiversity is important because each species fills a certain function, or niche, in its ecosystem. It therefore assists in the running of that system. However, in some cases there are more than one species that can fulfill a niche in an ecosystem. The biocentric would argue that both species must be preserved, and the ecocentric would argue that as long as the system continues to work, either species can be protected. In this case, I agree with the biocentric, saying that both species should be preserved, but I also agree with the ecocentric saying that overall, we need the system to continue working properly.

People are top predators in every ecosystem, for we have adapted to almost every part of the planet. Though we have conquered most of the planet, this does not give us the right to exploit the resources so fully that other species cannot also share in their benefit. In the definition of sustainable development, it says “the ability to meet humanity’s current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs”(World Commission on Environment and Development, 1987). This implies not only the human generations, but the generations of important species that we directly and indirectly rely on to run these ecological systems.

World Commission on Environment and Development. Our common future, chapter 2: towards sustainable development. [Online]. Avail from: http://www.un-documents.net/k-001303.htm [1987 June]